People have been using dentures since as early as 700 B.C., when they were constructed out of human and animal teeth in northern Italy. The first president of the United States, George Washington, also sported this dental device, though it also was composed of human and animal teeth set in hippopotamus ivory rather than wood as is popularly believed. Today, however, your dentist, such as those at A Family Dental Group, most likely provided you with dentures composed of acrylic resins, other plastics, or porcelain. While these materials are much more durable and longer lasting than their predecessors, they will still require regular care.
Cleaning Your Dentures
Just like your natural teeth, dentures can collect food particles, plaque, and be prone to stains. As a result, it is important to keep them clean and odor free. Unlike your natural teeth, dentures are much more prone to scratching and abrasions. To prevent damage during cleaning, make sure to use soft-bristled brushes and cleaners made specifically for dentures. Toothpastes and household cleaners can be too abrasive. Between your regular brushings, dentures can be rinsed after meals and snacks. Do not forget to clean your gums and tongue too! Brushing your gums and tongue with a soft-bristled brush will help minimize odor-causing bacteria, and can assist in minimizing sores and irritations associated with new dentures. Just as with your natural teeth, brushing should occur at least twice a day, in the morning and in the evening before bed.
Handling and Storage
When you are rinsing or brushing your dentures, you may wish to take precautions against accidental drops. If dropped, dentures may break. To minimize the chance of breaking, handle the dentures over a soft, folded towel or a sink full of water. When you are not wearing your dentures, make sure to keep them submerged in cool water or a denture solution recommended by your dentist to prevent warping. Do not rinse or store your dentures in hot water, as this can also lead to warping.
Attend Regular Dental Visits
After receiving a new set of dentures, it is important to attend your follow-up visits to your dentist. At the follow-up, your dentist will make sure your dentures are fitting correctly and that any adjustments that are needed are made. Regular dental visits are important to ensure that your dentures have not been damaged and are still working properly. Avoid attempting to adjust or repair your dentures on your own, as you may exasperate the problem instead of correcting it.
Amanda Stein
